Republic Services: Strike Looms as Teamsters Demand Fair Wages

STRIKE ALERT! Teamsters Local 25 members at Republic Services are on the brink of a major work stoppage, and the stakes couldn't be higher. With an overwhelming 90% strike vote, these workers are demanding the same wages and benefits that their competitors at Capitol Waste and Star Waste Systems enjoy. This isn't just about money; it's about fairness, equity, and maintaining industry standards.

WHY THIS MATTERS! Republic Services, the second-largest sanitation company in North America, raked in a staggering $16 billion in revenue in 2024. That's a nearly 6% increase from the previous year! And get this—they returned $1.18 billion to shareholders and nearly $13 million to their CEO. So, why the reluctance to pay their workers fairly?

THE NUMBERS DON'T LIE! Republic's wage schedule is several dollars below its competitors, and their health insurance plan isn't as comprehensive as the Teamsters Plan enjoyed by Local 25 members at other sanitation employers. Yet, Republic refuses to budge. This is a company that can afford to pay its workers fairly, but they're choosing not to. It's a slap in the face to the hardworking men and women who keep our cities clean.

THE STRIKE WILL CONTINUE! Thomas G. Mari, President of Local 25, made it clear: "The strike will take as long as necessary to make certain that Republic Teamsters get what they’ve rightfully earned." This isn't just about one company; it's about setting a precedent for the entire industry. If Republic can get away with this, what's to stop other companies from following suit?

THE RIPPLE EFFECT! This isn't an isolated incident. Teamsters at Republic's operation in Ottawa, Illinois, went on strike just a day after Local 25. The union could extend picket lines nationwide, resulting in a work stoppage for over 3,500 Teamsters. This could disrupt waste management services across the country, affecting both residential and commercial customers.

THE PUBLIC OUTCRY! The community is rallying behind the striking workers. Chuck Stiles, director of the Teamsters’ waste division, said, "This is a predominantly African-American unit. The City of Atlanta, our community groups, our politicians, they will not take that. These guys are not sharecroppers. We won't go from year to year and wonder how we're gonna make money." The public is watching, and they're not happy.

THE BOTTOM LINE! Republic Services needs to wake up and smell the coffee. Their workers are united, and they're not backing down. The strike will end when Republic comes to its senses and agrees to bring pay and benefits up to the industry standard. We know they can afford it, so why the delay?

DO THIS! Support the striking workers. Share this story on social media. Let Republic Services know that we won't stand for unfair labor practices. This is about more than just one company; it's about setting a standard for the entire industry. Stand up for what's right, and let's make sure that Republic Services does the same.